Seventh-graders score in Texas debate

Texas lieutenant lovernor hopefuls Dan Patrick and Leticia Van de Putte took part in a televised debate Sept. 29 in Austin. This week, seventh-graders at Pin Oak Middle School portrayed the candidates in a mock debate.

I watch our real candidates' childish, petty commercials on TV and think, "These lunks are the best we've got?"

A student tore the house down when she said that Texas school kids are forced to take too many standardized tests, "from September to May," and challenged the candidates to stop the relentless quiz show.

The kid candidates played their roles to the hilt. The boys wore suits and ties. The girls were dressed in all-business attire. Matthew, as Abbott, was in a wheelchair.

When the debate ended, the candidates and audience left the auditorium - all except Matthew, who remained onstage in his wheelchair.

And Hilary, who refused to let Matthew have the stage to himself. Talk about fierce politics.

There's a good chance that Matthew and Hilary are still onstage in that auditorium.

Thursday mail delivery

You're an avid cyclist. Perhaps you can explain something for me. I've cycled in cities all around the nation, and when you pass a rider, it's common practice to give a gentle warning to the other rider by saying "on your left" as you approach. I ride three to four times a week, and in my 18 months living in Houston, I could probably count on two fingers the number of times a fellow rider has warned me before passing. It's much more likely that the rider comes huffing and puffing and blows by without even a glance in my direction - usually scaring the heck out of me. So rude, and also dangerous. Even in Dallas where Lance wannabes pass riders with glee, I almost always get a little warning. And I'm not a granny rider; I'm usually going 18 mph-plus. What's the deal with H-Town cyclists?

Janet Goode, Houston

Two wheels … four wheels … there's a lot of bad behavior and bullying on Houston streets. If you're riding 18 mph (that's speedy), how fast are these people going who pass you? It is common courtesy and common sense to say "on your left" as you pass a cyclist. One day, I hope to be in a position to say it.

I feel the same way about Notre Dame as you do, which probably puts us in a distinct minority. What do you want to bet that the Condoleezza Committee finds a way to put No. 6 or No. 7 Golden Domers in the four-team playoff?

Jim Hoffman, Houston

As if the pain of having an epic victory taken away from my Fighting Irish by a very questionable call was not enough, I open my Houston Chronicle to learn that you consider my beloved alma mater like poison. As I have grown (marginally) fond of your column, such a revelation was like pouring salt on my still raw wound. On reflection, I can only surmise that your aversion to the Irish can only be due to lack of experiencing a University of Notre Dame football weekend. Next September, the Longhorns will travel to South Bend to take on my Fighting Irish. If I get tickets, and your schedule allows, please accept my invitation to join me at the game.

Joe Carey, Houston

I was right with you on the Notre Dame vs. Florida State game. It was the first time I've ever cheered for Notre Dame. I swear I will become a Cowboys fan if the Texans draft Jameis Winston.

Marty Wysocki, Houston

Hey, Florida State … the University of Miami called. The U wants its thug reputation back.